How is voltage regulated in transformers?

Voltage in transformers is regulated through the process of electromagnetic induction, by adjusting the number of turns in the coils.

In a transformer, there are two coils of wire, known as the primary coil and the secondary coil. These coils are wound around a soft iron core, which enhances the magnetic field produced. The primary coil is connected to an alternating current (AC) supply, which creates a changing magnetic field around the coil. This changing magnetic field induces a voltage in the secondary coil, a process known as electromagnetic induction.

The voltage induced in the secondary coil is directly proportional to the number of turns in the coil. This is expressed in the formula Vp/Vs = Np/Ns, where Vp is the voltage in the primary coil, Vs is the voltage in the secondary coil, Np is the number of turns in the primary coil, and Ns is the number of turns in the secondary coil. Therefore, by adjusting the number of turns in the coils, the voltage can be regulated.

For example, if the secondary coil has more turns than the primary coil, the voltage in the secondary coil will be higher than the voltage in the primary coil. This is known as a step-up transformer. Conversely, if the primary coil has more turns than the secondary coil, the voltage in the secondary coil will be lower than the voltage in the primary coil. This is known as a step-down transformer.

In summary, voltage regulation in transformers is achieved through the principle of electromagnetic induction, by manipulating the number of turns in the primary and secondary coils. This allows for the conversion of voltages to suit different electrical appliances and systems.